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Decatur, Georgia
 
Joe Mannix - White Flag (CD, Bongo Beat, Pop)
Classic new pop. White Flag was originally a self-released disc before the fine folks (with the keen ears) at Canada's Bongo Beat made the wise choice to reissue the album. Joe recorded two albums with his rock band Mannix and then opted to take a softer, more poppy approach on this, his first solo album. A good choice...because a voice this good could get lost in the chaos of a loud rock band. The album opens with the beautifully gliding "Silver Girl," an exceptional tune that really showcases this man's vocal skills. Mannix then proceeds to deliver fourteen more originals (one of which was co-written with Dave Rave) as well as "The Echo" (written by Ernest Mannix, Jr.). Interestingly, this album was recorded in a church in Ontario, Canada. This may help to explain how the songs came out sounding so earnest and sincere...(?). Other songs that stand out in particular are "Caroline," "Everyman," "House Is Not A Home," and "Whiter Flag." Our only very minor complaint is that this album could have been made even stronger with a bit more variety in the choice of material. But considering the quality of the writing here...that is not such a big deal. A fine album from a real talent. (Rating: 4+++)
 
 
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